NAMI Sumner County will host a presentation by Judge Mike Carter on the Sumner County Mental Health Court at the next educational and support meeting Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph of Arimathea Church, 103 Country Club Drive in Hendersonville.

Judge Mike Carter joined the Sumner County court system in 2015. Carter has since helped develop the county's first mental health court to focus on a probation program as an alternative to incarceration for those with mental health issues.

"The idea is to help people with mental health problems to deal with the underlying issues," Carter said in a 2015 Tennessean interview. "That way, we're not only helping them, but they're also not a burden on the taxpayers."

Parking and the entrance are at the rear of the church. Support groups will meet after the program at around 8 pm.

For those who themselves or who have loved ones suffering from chronic sadness, anger outbursts, delusions, and other symptoms of mental illness, NAMI Sumner County offers support and education on the third Tuesday of each month. Please call or text 615-763-5161 or email namisumner@namitn.org for information about free support meetings and free educational workshops.

Support this free service offering hope, education, and support for anyone concerned about the mental health of our community – parents, individuals, friends, and advocates working to provide help and understanding to those in need. Call or text 615-763-5161 or email namisumner@namitn.org to make a donation or to volunteer.